Improvement works will take place on the Island Line from next Friday (October 18), and Sunday, November 17, involving a mix of full and partial closures.

The project will be carried out in two phases. The entire line will be closed from October 18 to November 3, after which trains will operate only between Ryde St Johns Road and Shanklin while work continues in the Ryde area. A final full closure is scheduled for Sunday, November 16, ahead of reopening the next day.

Engineers will replace switches and crossings at Ryde Esplanade, renew rail through Ryde Tunnel, refurbish Ryde St Johns footbridge, and improve fencing along Rink Road. Other work includes tamping the track for a smoother ride, managing vegetation, and carrying out detailed inspections for future repairs.

Replacement buses will operate throughout to maintain connections across the Island.

George Murrell of South Western Railway and Network Rail, said: “We have chosen this time to close the line as it is after the summer season to ensure disruption is kept to a minimum.

“Conditions in Ryde Tunnel are some of the most extreme in the country, with pumps needed to keep the line dry. By closing the line, we can carry out essential maintenance and identify areas needing further work to allow Island Line to thrive for years to come.”